By james art 
The VSU team has developed an innovative AI solution, which helps small farmers analyze soil conditions and maximize crop yields.
The Virginia State University is proud to recognize a team of five VSU students to win the first place in the 8th annual interest in developing minorities in engineering (Amie) Design Challenge. The competition, held during the 39th STEM Conference of the Black Engineer of the Year (Beya) in Baltimore, Maryland, brought together 13 teams of the best HBCU engineering students to develop technological solutions for real-world challenges.
“This achievement is a testament to their hard work, creativity and dedication,” says Dr. Joseph Shelton, Assistant Professor of Computer Science, one of the teachers who manage and mentor the team. “Their ability to apply new technologies to real -world challenges demonstrates their potential as future innovators and solving problems.”
The VSU team, consisting of the specialties in computer science and computer engineering Julian Ramires-Simon, Carlia Elvis, Amar Backer, Attibilia Thomas and prefer Adesoy (in the photo above from left to right), won the highest distinction for its project entitled “GROW-MORE”.
Together, they designed an innovative system that integrates built -in sensors, machine learning, digital twin and AI to help small farmers analyze soil conditions and maximize crop yields. By collecting real-time data for moisture, temperature and humidity, the system uses AI to generate insights while a digital application-twin simulates the terms of the farm and provides recommendations controlled by data.
During a five -minute presentation, the team showed a captivating video of its technology in action, which effectively explains its impact on agricultural efficiency. Students confidently addressed questions from judges, showing their technical expertise, critical thinking, and problems to solve problems. Their victory is a historical first for VSU, exceeding its previous best final in third place in the nine-year history of the race.
In recognition of their hard work and success, the team and college of engineering and technology will receive a monetary award for the further development of their project, with potential funding to support commercialization. They are also invited to present their work at the Prairie View A & M University during the AMIE annual conference in September, where they will engage in industry leaders, researchers and potential investors.
This achievement is an example of the university’s commitment to academic achievement and innovation. VSU is extremely proud of these students for their hard work and dedication to the advancement of technology, which makes a real impact.